Developmental care focuses on two key principles: first, family centred care, which emphasises how important the parents are to the baby’s development – even with the smallest premature babies. Second, recognising the signals given by premature babies in order to be able to respond to their needs.
More Suitable Lighting
Ensure that the light is not too bright and that it dims in cycles so that the baby learns to experience a day/night rhythm. Use incubator covers or sleeping masks.
Less Noise
Speak softly and move quietly, do not put anything down or rest anything on the incubator, close devices carefully, monitor noise levels.
Minimise Handling
Allow the baby periods of undisturbed sleep, for example by bundling routine tasks like taking blood pressure measurements, and keeping regular checks to a minimum.
Minimise Disturbing Stimuli
Also, keep other disturbing influences, such as strong smells and tastes, to a minimum.
Involve Parents
Grant parents as much independent access to their baby as possible, involve them in decisions and give them information in clear and easy-to-understand terms. Parents should perform as many tasks as possible by themselves.
Kangaroo Care
Enable and facilitate, for example with quiet, separate areas and comfortable, adjustable armchairs.
Regular Contact Person
Always try to plan to have the same staff member assigned to each premature baby.
Mobility
Define the boundaries for the baby, for example by using a cot bumper or thin sheets.
Relaxation
Let the baby relax as much as possible, for example, by sucking on a pacifier or a cotton swab dipped in sucrose or a finger – this makes it easier to transition from tube feeding.
Pain Management
Avoid or minimise painful treatment. If this is not possible, administer pain management that is suitable for the baby.
